Wiki Hernia Question

[BABS37]

My physician was going in to do a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. When he gets in, he sees an umbilical hernia. " the omentum was reduced with counter traction and electrocautery- gallbladder was then removed- the the umbilical fascia was closed in figure of eight sutures. " Can I code for the umbilical hernia or is it considered incidental since it had to be repaired in order to do the cholecystectomy to begin with?

 

[Grintwig]

I personally would consider it incidental. It was included in the "approach" and therefore is considered part of the procedure.
In my opinion that is.

 

[cmartin]

I agree - this one sounds incidental

 

[BABS37]

Thank you both!!!